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Hi guys looking for some help

I'm being tested at the moment for COPD I'm only 31 years been a heavy smoker since I was 13 I seem to be forever ill colds breathing problems chest infections is this normal

  1. Hi. I see you're new to our community, having just joined yesterday. Welcome to our COPD community. I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing persistent colds and breathing difficulties. COPD can indeed contribute to breathing problems and make individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections, including colds. Additionally, colds can trigger COPD flare-ups. It's commendable that your doctor is testing you for COPD, as an early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help slow the progression of the condition and improve your quality of life, as you can see here (https://copd.net/living/early-stage-treatment). While you are waiting for test results, did your doctor prescribe any treatment to help you feel better? John. community moderator

    1. Thank you for getting back to me yeah I have been given inhalers witch seem to help a little bit but I've sort of just been left to it now

      1. It can take some trial and error to find the right medications that help you the most. When do you see your doctor again, or get your test results? Don't be afraid to contact the doctor sooner if you feel like you're not making progress.

        Additionally, it might help you to know that if you have respiratory problems, it can take a long time to fully recover. So, be gentle with yourself as you are figuring all this out, okay? We are here to support you. -Melissa, copd team

    2. Thank you I'm feeling very alone at the moment 😔

      1. Hi . A new diagnosis can be really overwhelming and that anxiety can be hard for others to understand, even those who love you most. But please know you are not alone. You have a huge community of people here who have been where you are now and understand what you are going through. Some in this community were diagnosed as teens due to genetic conditions or severe asthma. They can help you cope with being diagnosed young and, hopefully, help you see that you can still live your life fully with the right lifestyle changes and medical care. Sending loads and loads of gentle hugs your way. - Lori (Team Member)

    3. Thank you 😊

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